Beverly Morris retired in 2016, aiming for a serene life in rural Georgia, but her peace shattered when a nearby data center disrupted her water supply. Located just 400 yards away, the Meta-operated center has caused sediment build-up in her well, leaving Morris to haul water for basic needs. While Meta claims their operations are not at fault, locals express growing discontent over the rise of such facilities. As data centers proliferate in Georgia due to the demand from AI technology, complaints about water usage and pollution increase.
The booming industry is met with local activism; reports indicate $64 billion worth of projects delayed due to community pushback. Data centers, essential for digital services, consume vast amounts of water for cooling, leading to concerns over dwindling resources. Environmental advocates stress that larger corporations should not overpower smaller property rights, as local residents face the consequences of construction and resource depletion.
Despite tech giants pledging to improve water sustainability, the immediate impact on communities is profound. Experts call for smarter cooling systems and long-term strategies to prevent a water crisis as data demands soar. As residents hold their breath waiting for change, the contradiction of tech growth versus local living conditions is glaringly evident. The challenge remains: how to balance innovation without exhausting vital resources like water.
